Facial Fractures

Management of fractures of the facial skeleton — mandibular, maxillary, zygomaticomaxillary, orbital floor and frontal sinus — using contemporary techniques.

Types of facial fractures

• Mandibular fractures — fractures of the lower jaw, often affecting the body, angle, condyle, or symphysis.
• Maxillary fractures — including Le Fort I, II and III patterns affecting the midface.
• Zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fractures — fractures involving the cheekbone and its articulations.
• Orbital floor fractures — fractures of the bony floor of the eye socket, which may entrap orbital contents.
• Frontal sinus fractures — fractures of the bone of the forehead, sometimes involving the sinus.

Assessment & surgical planning

Diagnosis usually involves clinical examination supported by CT imaging. Treatment depends on the fracture pattern, displacement, functional concerns (occlusion, vision, nasal airway), and patient factors. Many simple fractures are managed non-operatively; displaced or symptomatic fractures may require open reduction and internal fixation using titanium plates and screws.

Recovery

Recovery depends on the fracture and operation. Many patients are managed as overnight or day cases, while complex fractures may require longer admission. Dietary modifications (soft or liquid diet), nasal precautions, ocular precautions, and graded return to activity may apply depending on the injury.

Related: See our scar management guide for the post-operative healing timeline, the daily silicone-and-massage protocol, and when to be concerned about a scar.

All surgical procedures carry potential risks and complications, which will be discussed in detail at your consultation.

← Back to Facial Trauma